Fleeing Driver In Stolen Vehicle Strikes Police Cruiser: North Haven PD

NORTH HAVEN, CT — The driver of a stolen vehicle struck a police cruiser twice, and drove over traffic islands on Universal Drive in North Haven while fleeing from police on Thursday, according to officials.

Police responded to the area of Chick-fil-A on Universal Drive around 4:45 p.m. on Sept. 26 on the report of “suspicious activity,” according to police.

Three men wearing ski masks were reported to be inside a black Volkswagen Atlas with no license plate, police said.

The first-arriving officer saw the vehicle driving south on Universal Drive and go through a red light.

Police said the driver then engaged the officer in pursuit when he tried to conduct a traffic stop.

“The vehicle struck our officer’s cruiser twice while trying to flee, and began driving over traffic islands and into oncoming traffic for portions of Montowese Ave.,” police wrote in a news release. “The pursuit continued onto I-91 North, where the vehicle continued to drive recklessly during rush hour traffic, at high speeds weaving in and out of lanes and driving in the breakdown lane. Ultimately, for the safety of the traveling public, the pursuit was terminated.

“It was later learned the vehicle was stolen from Guilford CT, and was involved in several area armed robberies. It is likely our officer(s) quick response disrupted a soon-to-be armed robbery.”

Any witnesses or anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Brennan at 203-239-5321 ext. 261 or North Haven Detectives at x240. Callers can remain anonymous, police said.